MASSACHUSETTS - Boston is a city defined by its relationship with the sea, and no crustacean is more iconic to its culinary scene than the Maine lobster. From classic, no-frills seafood shacks to elegant oyster bars, the city offers an incredible array of lobster dishes that are a must-try for any visitor. The most famous preparation is the legendary lobster roll, but Boston's chefs showcase this sweet, succulent meat in many delicious forms. Here is a guide to ten of the best and most celebrated lobster dishes in Boston.
1. The Hot Lobster Roll at Neptune Oyster (North End)
- The Dish: Often cited as the best in the city, the Hot Lobster Roll at Neptune Oyster is a true pilgrimage-worthy dish. It features a massive portion of fresh, warm lobster meat poached in a decadent amount of butter and piled high on a toasted, buttered brioche bun.
- The Vibe: A tiny, incredibly popular, and critically acclaimed oyster bar in the historic North End. Be prepared to wait in a long line, but the experience is absolutely worth it.
2. The Lobster Roll (Hot or Cold) at Row 34 (Seaport & other locations)
- The Vibe: A stylish and bustling "workingman's oyster bar," Row 34 is a modern and energetic destination for seafood lovers.
- The Dish: They give you the choice between a classic Maine-style (cold with mayo) or Connecticut-style (hot with butter) lobster roll, both of which are exceptional and packed with fresh meat. Their entire raw bar and seafood menu is top-notch.
3. The Brown Butter Lobster Roll at Eventide Fenway
- The Vibe: An outpost of the famed Portland, Maine, restaurant, Eventide Fenway is a modern and casual spot with a fast-paced, counter-service style.
- The Dish: They offer a unique and delicious take on the lobster roll. The Brown Butter Lobster Roll features fresh lobster meat tossed in a warm, nutty brown butter vinaigrette and served in a soft, steamed bao-style bun.
4. The Lobster Roll at B&G Oysters (South End)
- The Vibe: An elegant and sophisticated neighborhood oyster bar from acclaimed chef Barbara Lynch, B&G Oysters has a beautiful, intimate dining room and a charming stone-walled patio.
- The Dish: Their lobster roll is a classic, upscale version, featuring a generous amount of fresh lobster lightly dressed and served on a perfectly toasted, buttered roll with a side of fantastic french fries.
5. The Steamed Lobster at Legal Sea Foods (Multiple Locations)
- The Vibe: A Boston institution, Legal Sea Foods is a reliable and classic destination for a full seafood dinner.
- The Dish: While they offer a great lobster roll, this is a fantastic place to get a classic whole steamed lobster. Served with drawn butter, corn on the cob, and steamed potatoes, it's a quintessential New England feast.
6. The Lobster Roll at James Hook & Co. (Waterfront)
- The Vibe: A no-frills, family-owned seafood market and shack that has been a Boston landmark since 1925. This is a primarily takeout spot where you order at the window.
- The Dish: James Hook & Co. serves a simple, perfect, and often more affordable lobster roll packed with fresh, high-quality meat. It's a go-to for an authentic, unpretentious taste of New England.
7. The Lobster Fra Diavolo at Giacomo's Ristorante (North End)
- The Vibe: A famously tiny, cash-only, and incredibly popular Italian restaurant in the North End, known for its long lines and delicious, hearty pasta.
- The Dish: For a different take on lobster, try their Lobster Fra Diavolo, which features a generous amount of lobster meat served over pasta with a spicy tomato sauce.
8. The Lobster Roe Noodles at Saltie Girl
- The Vibe: A chic and trendy seafood bar, Saltie Girl is known for its extensive tinned fish collection and creative, globally inspired seafood dishes.
- The Dish: A standout and unique creation is their Lobster Roe Noodles, a rich and savory pasta dish that showcases a different and incredibly flavorful part of the lobster.
9. The Lobster Mac & Cheese at The Barking Crab
- The Vibe: A fun, casual, and rustic seafood shack located in a big red and yellow tent right on the water in the Seaport District.
- The Dish: While they serve a full range of seafood, their Lobster Mac & Cheese is a decadent and comforting favorite, packed with creamy cheese and chunks of lobster.
10. The Lobster Roll at Yankee Lobster Co. (Seaport)
- The Vibe: Another classic, no-frills fish market and restaurant, Yankee Lobster Co. is a beloved spot in the Seaport for fresh, simple, and delicious seafood.
- The Dish: They serve a fantastic, traditional lobster roll that is packed with meat and flavor, representing the best of a classic New England seafood shack.